Look out for this dangerous plant this summer

Giant hogweed is cutting a wider swath in B.C. and Ontario, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada is urging people across the country to document sightings of the towering green plant with large umbels of white flowers and a clear sap.

THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darren Calabrese file photo

The Nature Conservancy of Canada is warning Ontario residents to be on the lookout for one of Canada’s most dangerous plants when they’re outside this summer.

Giant hogweed can grow up to six metres in height and has large clusters of white flowers at the top. Its clear, toxic sap can cause rashes, blistering, third-degree burns and even blindness if it touches the body and is then exposed to the sun.

Ottawa residents should dial 311 to report any possible hogweed plants. City officials will be sent to determine whether the plants are actually the toxic weed.